I've read through several resources on how to cope with the loss of a pet (although she was so much more than a pet to me) and all of them have suggested getting out into nature because it helps us be more present and in the moment rather than stuck in our heads, ruminating on past events that are likely causing more pain. The weekend was more bearable because my husband was home and I wasn't alone. But with him at work, the house was just too quiet and too lonely this morning. So, I set out on a walk. I had to stop by the post office first but then I wandered into downtown Lake Oswego. I walked along Lakewood Bay and then around into a neighborhood. I came upon a smallish park that had a shaded picnic table (I despise the sun and I had waited too long to start my walk so the morning clouds had burned off already). I had brought my sketching stuff with me figuring I'd sketch something near the water but there just weren't any shady spots to stop and I didn't really feel compelled to draw anything I was seeing around there anyway. As I sat at the picnic table, I figured the scene in front of me was as good as any, especially since this is all about practice anyway. I decided just to sketch with color and not with pen or pencil. I did get some Vitamin N (Nature) today and that was nice. I really hope some cloudy days would come along, they always make me happier.